Brown Ambition

This week, we’re sitting down with Raye Shurice, an amazing member of the Mandi Moneymakers community, who went from juggling two jobs to landing a major salary bump and leveling up her entire career. She’s breaking down her journey, from tough interviews to tough decisions, and how community, clarity, and confidence helped her boss up and get what she deserved. We’re also digging into one of the trickiest parts of the professional world: salary negotiation especially when you're trying to level up within the same company. Sound familiar? We got you. From figuring out your market value to knowing how to leverage that next offer (yes, even in nonprofits!), we’re talking strategy, self-worth, and how to have the conversation without losing your cool. Plus: We’re sharing real-world scripts, role-play tips, and ways to make sure your PTO, bonuses, and benefits get the same love as your paycheck. If you’ve ever second-guessed your ask, struggled to advocate for your worth, or just needed that push to go after more—this episode is your reminder: You can do this, and you deserve every bit of it. Links + Resources: 📲 Follow on Raye Instagram - @raye.shurice 🎙️ Stay connected with Brown Ambition →   @brownambitionpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on the show, we’re bringing you a powerful mix of money talk, passion projects, and straight-up sisterhood. Jamila Souffrantt yes,Jamila from Journey to Launch pulls up to share how she turned her financial freedom dreams into reality and how you can too. She drops gems from her book and reminds us all that reclaiming our financial futures is not just possible, it's necessary. She’s joined by her sisters, Shaina McGregor and Imani Manning, for a soulful catch-up that’s long overdue (last podcast link-up was 2021—whew!). Shaina, a former pro dancer turned life coach, walks us through her shift into wellness and building a community with Inward Space. And Imani? She’s holding it down in the kitchen and beyond, juggling entrepreneurship and a career that centers joy, kids, and flavor.   The vibe is pure love, family memories, deep dives into Jamaican-American identity, and what it really looks like to chase purpose while staying grounded. Whether it’s money, creativity, motherhood, or just figuring out what’s next—these three women keep it real and relatable. Plus: Shaina closes out the episode with a calming breathing exercise that’ll have you exhaling stress and inhaling peace. Tap in for a beautifully layered convo that’ll leave you laughing, reflecting, and inspired to move boldly in your own lane. Links + Resources: 📲 Follow on Jamila Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/jamilasouffrant      📲 Follow on Journey to Launch Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/journeytolaunch/ 📲 Follow on Shaina Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/shaina.mcgregor 📲 Follow on inward space Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inward.space/ 📲 Follow on Imani Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/yaadchef_45 🎙️ Stay connected with Brown Ambition →   @brownambitionpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we’re joined by Latham Thomas, founder of Mama Glow and a true trailblazer in reproductive justice. She takes us on the journey that started with her own birth experience and led her to build a movement that’s transforming how we care for Black women and birthing people.   From expanding doula care for Medicaid families in NYC to training the next wave of advocates and healers, Latham breaks down how Mama Glow went from a personal mission to a global platform. And y’all, she keeps it real about what growth actually looks like—think repotting a plant or realizing your kid just outgrew their favorite hoodie.   We also get into the rise of Mama Glow during COVID, how the shift to online learning opened unexpected doors, and why planning, vision, and community are key when everything feels uncertain. Plus, Latham reminds us that doulas and midwives aren’t a luxury—they’re a necessity when it comes to safety, dignity, and support in the birthing space.   If you’re someone who cares about health, healing, and building something with purpose, this one’s for you.   What You’ll Hear:   - Why Latham created Mama Glow and what it’s grown into   - The real deal on Black maternal health and advocacy   - How COVID sparked a pivot that paid off   - The power of self-advocacy in the delivery room   - How doulas are changing lives—and saving them   Takeaway Quote: “Every person deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported during birth. Mama Glow is here to make sure that happens especially for us." – Latham Thomas Links + Resources: 📲 Black Mamas Matter: https://blackmamasmatter.org/bmhw25/ 📲 Follow on Latham Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/glowmaven/ 📲 Follow on Mama Glow Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/mamaglowfoundation/ 🎙️ Stay connected with Brown Ambition →   @brownambitionpodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BA Fam, I'm excited to share a new show from my friends at Higher Ground, hosted by thee Michelle Obama, called IMO. On IMO, Michelle and her big brother Craig Robinson aim to bring you the same: Candid perspectives on the everyday questions shaping our lives, relationships and the world around us. Each week, they’re joined by a guest to tackle real questions from real folks just like you offering practical advice, personal storytelling, and plenty of laughs. And a lot of their questions are about dating and relationships. Michelle and Craig share stories about being there for each other throughout their lives, from first crushes and fraught college years, to landing at the White House, to losing their mom. For six decades they’ve been each others’ most trusted counsel—and now, they want to be that counsel for you. In this episode, Keke Palmer joins Michelle and Craig when a listener asks why she feels so bad after a big career win. Keke reflects on how her planned breakout as a young actress went awry, and the ways that failure contributed to her career. They all describe how their perspectives on meaningful work have changed over the years—and the advice that Michelle’s girls are finally starting to listen to. You can hear more episodes of IMO at https://lnk.to/imomichellecraigBNSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join financial experts Chris Browning, host of Popcorn Finance, and Berna Anat, author of 'Money Out Loud,' as they delve into the highs and lows of saving money while navigating today’s economic climate. They discuss the fun energy of Gen Z regarding finances and the strategic shifts needed during turbulent times like the Trump tariffs. Berna shares her personal transition back to corporate life and the importance of community through thrift and bartering, all punctuated with a pop culture nod to Lizzo's redemption tour.

This week, we’re talking all things sales—breaking barriers, building wealth, and securing the bag. Mandi is joined by two powerhouse guests: Chantel George, founder of Sistas in Sales, and her brother Alex Woodruff, Sales Director at Fiddler, an AI software firm. They dive into the unique challenges women of color face in the sales industry, why representation matters, and how to carve out a thriving career in this space. Chantel shares how Sistas in Sales is creating opportunities and support systems for women navigating the field, while Alex drops gems on career growth, negotiating compensation, and navigating corporate spaces as a Black professional. Plus, we get into personal finance tips, the perks of entrepreneurial ventures, and why understanding your worth is non-negotiable. If you’re in sales, thinking about jumping in, or just looking for advice on making strategic money moves—this episode is for you! What You’ll Learn:  💰 Negotiating compensation like a pro📈 The power of financial planning🚀 Why entrepreneurial moves might be your next big step Links + Resources: 📲 Follow on Alex Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/alexjwoodruff/ 📲 Follow on Chantel Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/chantelmedia/ 🎙️ Stay connected with Brown Ambition →   @brownambitionpodcast   Plus, we get into:If you're in sales (or thinking about it), this episode is packed with insight to help you thrive! Timestamps:📌 00:00 - Intro + Meet Our Guests📌 01:05 - Challenges for Women of Color in Sales📌 03:43 - The Current Market & Opportunities📌 06:30 - Career Growth & Overcoming Barriers📌 10:34 - Personal Career Journeys📌 19:06 - Sales Strategies & Success Tips📌 26:49 - Managing Money in Sales📌 27:37 - Breaking Down Compensation Structures📌 32:01 - Why Living Below Your Means Matters📌 32:49 - Smart Financial Planning for Sales Pros📌 38:04 - Sisters in Sales: Building a Movement📌 44:41 - The Power of Networking in Sales📌 47:28 - Embracing Entrepreneurship Hit play and get ready to level up! 🎧✨ #BrownAmbition #SalesSuccess #WomenInSalesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BA Fam, she’s back! In this episode We’re  joined once again by the one and only Morgan DeBaun CEO of Blavity, serial entrepreneur, and now a FOUR-time guest on the show! Morgan has been making big moves, and this time, she’s here to talk about her new book, “Rewrite Your Rules”, and how she’s navigating life and business on her own terms.     We get into the real about entrepreneurship! what it actually takes to build a business from the ground up, the sacrifices no one talks about, and why staying true to your personal values is the ultimate flex. Morgan also gives us a peek into her life outside of work, sharing how she balances being a boss with family, self-care, and a strong support system.     If you’ve been feeling stuck in your career, business, or just life in general, this episode is for you! Morgan is dropping gems on how to break free from expectations and create success in a way that works for YOU.     What You’ll Learn:  ✨ How Morgan built Blavity and what’s kept her going   ✨ The biggest lessons from “Rewrite Your Rules”   ✨ Why having the right team (and personal boundaries) is a game-changer   ✨ The real talk on entrepreneurship—beyond the highlight reel     Links + Resources: 📖 Grab your copy of “Rewrite Your Rules” → Rewriteyourrules.com 📲 Follow Morgan on [Instagram @morgandebaun   🎙️ Stay connected with Brown Ambition →  @brownambitionpodcast   Don’t miss this one—hit play and get ready to rewrite your own rules! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this heartfelt and hilarious live BA QA session, Mandi Woodruff-Santos sits down with Emily Esquivel, a therapist-turned-entrepreneur who’s navigating the highs and lows of launching her own private practice. Together, they dive into the messy middle of entrepreneurship, from battling imposter syndrome to redefining what it means to run an ethical and sustainable business. Emily opens up about her journey, including the pivotal moment that pushed her to leave toxic work environments, the emotional weight of using an inheritance to fund her dream, and the challenges of creating a high-ticket offer in a field that often undervalues its practitioners.  Mandi brings her signature blend of humor and wisdom to coach Emily through refining her business strategy, identifying her ideal client, and building confidence in her offer.Whether you’re dreaming of starting your own business or just trying to figure out your next career move, this episode is packed with relatable moments, actionable advice, and plenty of laughs along the way. What We Covered: • Emily’s Career Journey: From working in toxic environments to launching her own private practice. • The Emotional Side of Entrepreneurship: How grief and family legacy shaped Emily’s decision to go solo. • Imposter Syndrome & Confidence Building: Why believing in your offer is key to success. • Ethical Business Models: Emily’s vision for creating a group practice that prioritizes therapists’ well-being over profits. • High-Ticket Offers: The challenges of pricing and selling services in a way that aligns with your values. • Marketing 101 for Entrepreneurs: Mandi’s tips on building a sales funnel, creating lead magnets, and nurturing potential clients. FOLLOW BROWN AMBITION:  Follow us @BrownAmbition on IG, @brownambition on TikTok, and make sure you're signed up to get our weekly newsletter. CHECK OUT EMILY ESQUIVEL:  https://oyanova.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/oyanova-healing-pllcSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Celebrating milestones and celebrity controversies, the conversation dives into the complex relationship between ambition and self-worth. They discuss Jonathan Majors and Meagan Good's dynamic while exploring moral responsibility in the entertainment world. Personal stories and therapy insights reveal how trauma shapes ambition, offering a chance to reshape it into something healthier. The hosts blend humor and heartfelt narratives, tackling topics like financial apps and the importance of understanding traditional banking in today's society.

BA Fam Tiffany is BACK!!!, and we’re celebrating in a big way! She shares the excitement of her new PBS special, “Get Good With Money”, and the unforgettable premiere party at the historic Kruger Scott Mansion. From reconnecting with Mandi to navigating last-minute challenges—like prepping for a teleprompter with 20/50 vision—Tiffany gives us an inside look at this milestone moment.     That’s not all—we also dive into real financial challenges many are facing today, including managing consumer debt, student loans, and rising childcare costs. We break down practical strategies, highlight tools like Rocket Money to uncover hidden expenses, and explore ways to increase income without dipping into retirement funds.    Whether you're looking for budgeting tips, motivation to tackle your finances, or just love an inspiring success story, this episode has it all. Take a listen!   Keep up with Tiffany "The Budgetnista" Aliche   @thebudgetnista @getgoodwithmoney /youtube.com/@thebudgetnistablog   Watch| Get Good with Money with Tiffany Aliche | PBS     Email your questions to brownambitionpodcast@gmail.com or DM us @brownambitionpodcast on Instagram.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.